Inter are going into a top of the table showdown with Juventus on Saturday and Esteban Cambiasso says they are “back where we belong.”

The Nerazzurri finished seventh last season and had to go through the preliminary rounds of the Europa League, while the start to this campaign was also stuttering, but a run of eight consecutive victories has put them in second place.

“This is an important match and different from the others, but if we hadn’t done well in our fixtures so far then this appointment would not be so crucial,” Cambiasso told Sport Mediaset.

“It is too early to talk about the Scudetto, but Inter are back where we belong – fighting for the top places.”

Not only is this a head-to-head for the Serie A leadership, it is also a fiercely bitter Derby d’Italia between clubs with a fractious history.

“Clearly the rivalry that comes with the Derby d’Italia is further motivation to do well. It’s a game you feel more than the others, but I don’t think that represents an advantage for either side.

“Who will win on Saturday? I hope Inter. That is what we want and right now there is absolutely nothing else in our minds.”

The Argentine had been pushed to the sidelines by Claudio Ranieri, but has rediscovered his form under Andrea Stramaccioni.

“I do not have a secret for why I am doing so well this season. I just want to underline that the criticism towards me and Javier Zanetti was unfair.”